254683
253238
WHL  

Rockets Dealt Serious Blow

It was the worst of scenarios for the Kelowna Rockets as they try to avoid missing the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.

The Rockets fell 4-1 to the B.C. Division champion Vancouver Giants Saturday night, while at the same time the Chilliwack Bruins edged Portland 3-2 in a shootout.

The results leave the Bruins two points up on the Rockets in the fight for the final playoff spot in the division. The Rockets have three games left in the regular season while the Bruins have four remaining.

Vancouver took the sails out of the Rockets and another sellout crowd at Prospera Place with two goals in a span of 11 seconds midway through the third to snap a 1-1 tie.

Kelowna had a glorious chance to get back into the game a few minutes later when Cody Franson took a five minute fighting major after throwing punches at Lucas Bloodoff. The Rockets rookie was not penalized.

The Rockets managed just two shots during the long power-play, which included a full two minutes with a five-on-three advantage.

Cody Almond opened the scoring for the Rockets midway through the second.

The Rockets conclude their three game weekend with an afternoon contest in Tri-Cities Sunday. The Bruins play in Seattle Sunday.

Kelowna closes out the regular season at home against Kamloops next Friday and Prince George Saturday.


More WHL articles

254081